Trump Threatened Iran with New Strikes Over Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — CNN
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on August 5 that the Strait of Hormuz must be reopened “in the near future,” otherwise Iran could face a new, major military operation. According to him, Washington is prepared to take tough measures if traffic through the strategic sea route is not restored.
Trump noted that “very constructive talks” are ongoing with Tehran, but warned that if Iran reneges on its commitments, it will face strikes once again.
“The Strait will be opened very soon, otherwise they will face a very strong strike… If they back down again, a truly strong strike awaits them. They know this. They understand this. I have no choice,” said the U.S. president.
According to him, his primary goal is not to resume attacks but to reach a diplomatic agreement.
“We dealt them a very, very strong blow. But the strongest blow is yet to come, and I hope we won’t have to use it. I hope we won’t have to—we’re having very constructive talks. They don’t like to admit it,” Trump added.
Iran has denied that it is conducting direct negotiations with the United States. At the same time, Tehran stated that it is working with Oman on an agreement to open the strait.
Mediators hope that once the strait reopens, the U.S. and Iran will be able to resume negotiations on the nuclear program, CNN reports.
As a reminder, global oil prices resumed their rise on Tuesday, August 4, after a sharp drop the previous day.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the Strait of Hormuz could be fully opened to international shipping as early as August 4. After that, he said, Washington and Tehran will move on to a new phase of negotiations focused on Iran’s nuclear program.
U.S. President Donald Trump also called on American oil companies to immediately lower gasoline prices for consumers. Separately, he criticized Chevron CEO Mike Wirth.
